People say it’s because of the crystal-clear turquoise waters. Others declare it to be the outrageous beauty and the serene mountain panoramic backdrops that make Lake Tahoe so special. However, don’t be fooled into thinking visitors just come for the views. With a host of things to do in Lake Tahoe catering to lovers of outdoor adventures, foodies, history buffs, and winter sports enthusiasts, you can’t go wrong by visiting Lake Tahoe.
If you’ve never visited this stunning freshwater lake before, we know you may have a few questions. Like, where is Lake Tahoe? How deep is Lake Tahoe? And when is the best time to visit?
To help you, we’ve compiled a unique guide to the year-round sights, activities, and things to do in Lake Tahoe. Whether you come for the outstanding skiing and snowboarding during the winter or want to enjoy a romantic sunset cruise on the lake in the summer, keep reading, as we’ve got every angle covered.
(Oh, and Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in the United States at 1,645 feet deep!)
Undoubtedly, Lake Tahoe is celebrated for its surrounding world-class skiing and snowboarding venues. During the winter months, visitors flock to the ski mountain areas that encircle the lake and tops our list of the best things to do in Lake Tahoe when the snow is on the ground.
Situated in the Sierra Nevada Mountains on the elevated California and Nevada state border, Lake Tahoe has several exceptional ski areas, including Heavenly, Homewood, and Dimond Peak. Their distinct location overlooking the lake offers skiers unparalleled views over the turquoise waters as you slalom downhill.
However, if you’re not a fan of skiing and would prefer to catch the spectacular vistas at a more sedate pace, you can join the team at Tahoe Snowshoe Tours. Here, you’ll be immersed in nature on a leisurely hike around the lake for a chance to capture the perfect lakeside photograph in the snow.
During the warmer months, there are countless things to do in Lake Tahoe – both in and on the water. For example, if you and your friends are looking for a wholly spiritual experience, you can head to the yogis at Lake Tahoe Yoga for an idyllic paddleboard yoga session.
Alternatively, if you’d like to really get the adrenaline flowing, speak to the staff at North Tahoe Watersports. With three fantastic locations, you can join them to parasail over the lake or rent jet skis and boats for a day out on the water.
Whatever activity you choose to do, be sure to spend an evening on an Emerald Bay Sunset Cruise with the crew at Lake Tahoe Bleu Wave. Here, you and your partner can sail across Lake Tahoe to Emerald Bay and watch the sun set behind the snow-capped mountains in the distance.
Lake Tahoe is more than just a playground for action and adventure seekers. In reality, the region is also packed with historical stories, famous previous residents, and mysterious secrets stemming from its intriguing distant past. As a result, Lake Tahoe is a perfect destination for those who enjoy exploring historical and cultural stories from a bygone era.
If this sounds like you, head down to the Lake Tahoe Museum, where you can see a collection of exhibits featuring Lake Tahoe’s first inhabitants, the Native American Washoe tribe. Ideal for the whole family, you can also observe how the area initially grew from mining gold, silver, and crystals, along with its extensive history of logging and its pivotal role in the nation’s expanding transport infrastructure.
For the artisans among you, as a mecca for artists from around the country, there are plenty of attractions and things to do in Lake Tahoe to keep you entertained. However, our top recommendation is to visit the amazing Marcus Ashley Gallery for an exquisite display of locally sourced fine art from the region.
We couldn’t create a guide of the top things to do in Lake Tahoe if we didn’t encourage you to sample the incredible wares produced around this picturesque lake. Where better to start this than at South Lake Brewing Company – inspired by two local founders, Chris and Nicole, you can try their crisp, regional brews at this local favorite craft beer brewery’s taprooms.
No trip to Lake Tahoe would be complete without a visit to California’s highest and coldest winery. First established in 1989, Truckee River Winery has made a name for itself as one of the area’s premier wine producers. Known for its superb Chardonnays and Pinot Grigios, Truckee River Winery is instantly recognizable by its distinctive barn logo design.
It’s well-known that life in the mountains is great for building up an appetite, and Lake Tahoe is no exception. With this in mind, our final recommendation of our favorite things to do in Lake Tahoe is to eat out at Jakes On The Lake. Not only do you enjoy the breathtaking views over the lake, but the mouth-watering food is as delectable as the panoramic scenery you’ll feast your eyes on while dining.
Whenever you decide to come, visiting Lake Tahoe will change your entire perspective of the perfect vacation away. Whether you’re seeking an action-packed alpine adventure in the snow-capped mountains or fun on the transparent azure waters of the lake below. There are so many things to do in Lake Tahoe that you’ll find yourself wanting to come back for more.
Lake Tahoe will keep you entertained all year round, so don’t miss the chance to experience the fantastic local hospitality and dramatic scenic settings from across the lake. To truly enhance your Lake Tahoe vacation, be sure to book ahead at the wonderful Best Western Plus Truckee-Tahoe Hotel in Truckee, California.